Generac Generator Troubleshooting Guide

Quick Fixes Homeowners Can Try Before Calling for Service

At TriStar Electric Inc., we are an Elite Generac Dealer serving Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia, many standby generator issues can be solved with a simple reset or quick check.

Modern Generac home standby generators use sensitive onboard computers. Small power fluctuations, brief outages, or minor fuel pressure changes can trigger an alarm even when nothing is actually wrong.

Before scheduling service, try the steps below. These quick checks often restore your generator to “Ready to Run” status.

How to Reset a Generac Generator

Newer Generators (Digital Controller Screen)

1. Set AUTO / OFF / MANUAL switch to OFF
2. Press ENTER
3. Pause a moment and press ENTER again
4. Return switch to AUTO (if this does not work, then repeat and on step 4 place the generator in manual, please remember, generator will not turn itself off when the power comes back on when it is in the manual setting)

Older Generators (LED Light Controller)

1. Set AUTO / OFF / MANUAL switch to OFF
2. Wait 10–15 seconds
3. Return switch to AUTO (if this does not work, then repeat and on step 4 place the generator in manual, please remember, generator will not turn itself off when the power comes back on when it is in the manual setting)

Common Generac Error Codes and What They Mean

(If codes return after reset, schedule service)

Error Code	Likely Cause	What To Do
Low Oil	Oil level dropped	Check and/or Add Mobil 1 5W-30 synthetic slowly (do NOT overfill)
Overcrank	Fuel supply issue	Ensure propane tank above 30% or natural gas valves are on, then reset
Overspeed	Computer glitch	Perform reset
Underspeed	Temporary fault	Perform reset
Undervoltage	Startup fault	Perform reset

 

Changing the Exercise Time (Weekly Self-Test)

Your generator automatically runs a weekly exercise cycle to keep the engine healthy.

Digital Controller Models

• Press ESC
• Use arrows to highlight EDIT
• Enter Exercise menu
• Adjust time using arrows
• Press ENTER to confirm

(Exact sequence is also printed in your Generac manual)

LED Controller Models

• Hold the Set Exercise Time button for about 20 seconds
• Button is near the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch
• Timing procedure varies slightly by model
• The generator will start and run its exercise at this time, so be prepared for it to start
• It is now reset and it will run at that day of the week and time every week now

Clearing the Yellow Maintenance Light

The yellow light is NOT a failure, it is just a maintenance reminder.

To clear:

1. Switch generator to OFF
2. Press ENTER twice slowly
3. Return switch to AUTO

The light typically appears once or twice per year.

Red light = Call for service immediately.

If the Yellow Light does not disappear, it is nothing to be concerned about.

Pre-Storm Generator Checklist

Before a storm hits:

• Confirm display says “READY TO RUN”
• Verify green indicator light is ON
• Keep extra oil on hand (Mobil 1 5W-30)
• Check fuel supply level (especially propane homes)
• Charge your battery jump box in case you need to jump start the battery

Safe Generator Operation During a Storm

• Remove branches, snow or debris blocking airflow
• Never allow generator to become submerged
• If water approaches generator: TURN OFF IMMEDIATELY
• Flooded generators can create damage and hazards

Emergency Generator Service by TriStar Electric Inc.

TriStar Electric does offer emergency generator service.

How After-Hours Emergency Calls Work

1. Call our after-hours call center
2. Tell them the situation is an EMERGENCY

Important:
If you say it is not an emergency, the request is emailed to us and reviewed the next business day.

If you report an emergency:

• The call center collects your name, address, phone number, and a short description of the problem
• The information is immediately texted to an on-call generator service representative
• You can expect a callback in approximately 1 hour (depending on call volume)

Emergency Service Priority

• Maintenance agreement customers receive priority scheduling
• Emergency visits are billed at emergency service rates

When to Call for Service

Contact TriStar Electric if you notice:

• Red warning light
• Generator won’t start after reset
• Repeated shutdowns
• Fuel smell
• Unusual noise or vibration